Western Massachusetts Economic Development Councilhttp://news.westernmassedc.com Welcome to the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council's Portal for News and Information about the Western Massachusetts economy. The EDC is a private, non profit corporation that is leading the region's economic development by helping businesses to expand, relocate and succeed in Western Massachusetts. By providing our services for no charge, we generate quick and simple solutions for many business needs while working for a stronger regional economy and the addition of high quality, local employment. en-usFri, 09 Dec 2016 14:04:23 -0500Stephen BrandFrom the EDCNegotiating Your Way to Success: Free Webinarhttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056848/negotiating-your-way-to-success-free-webinar/One of the biggest challenges people face in negotiation is how to strategically approach the process and how to follow a sequential progression that will guide them through ebbs and flows.&amp;nbsp;In this webinar, participants will be introduced to negotiation methods they can apply to real workplace scenarios. Session led by Dr. Joshua Weiss, Program Director, MS Leadership and Negotiation, Bay Path UniversityFri, 09 Dec 2016 11:05:54 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056848/negotiating-your-way-to-success-free-webinar/Education<p><strong>FREE Webinar: Negotiating Your Way to Success</strong></p>
<p>Hosted by Bay Path University</p>
<p><strong>DECEMBER 12, 2016 &nbsp; | &nbsp; 12 P.M. &mdash; 1 P.M</strong>.</p>
<p>One of the biggest challenges people face in negotiation is how to strategically approach the process and how to follow a sequential progression that will guide them through ebbs and flows.&nbsp;In this webinar, participants will be introduced to negotiation methods they can apply to real workplace scenarios. Session led by Dr. Joshua Weiss, Program Director, MS Leadership and Negotiation, Bay Path University</p>
<p>Link to register:</p>
<p><a href="https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/845227951422225155">https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/845227951422225155</a></p>
<address><span style="font-size: medium;">Contact:</span></address><address><span style="font-size: medium;">Stephen Brand</span></address><address><span style="font-size: medium;">413-565-1783</span></address><address><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="mailto:sbrand@baypath.edu">sbrand@baypath.edu</a></span></address><p><img src="https://d112vpovu2xa8r.cloudfront.net/portal_massecon_hivefire_com/media/od5QHiAjgTHzdgN_100x100.jpeg"/></p>
masslive.comCountry Bank donates $1M toward new Baystate Wing Emergency Departmenthttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056740/country-bank-donates-1m-toward-new-baystate-wing-e/Country Bank will contribute $1 million toward the construction of Baystate Wing Hospital's new Emergency Department. The project, scheduled to begin construction in 2017, will right size the emergency department at Baystate's Palmer campus to better accommodate current patient volumes. "We are grateful for the continued generous support of Country Bank," said Michael Moran, president and chief administrative officer for Baystate Health's Eastern Region, which includes Baystate Wing Hospital and the Baystate Mary Lane Outpatient Center. "We are committed to providing emergency services at both of our campuses. While the Baystate Mary Lane Emergency Department is appropriately sized for their ...Thu, 08 Dec 2016 18:54:54 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056740/country-bank-donates-1m-toward-new-baystate-wing-e/Financial ServicesHealth Care
<p>Country Bank will contribute $1 million toward the construction of Baystate Wing Hospital's new Emergency Department. The project, scheduled to begin construction in 2017, will right size the emergency department at Baystate's Palmer campus to better accommodate current patient volumes. "We are grateful for the continued generous support of Country Bank," said Michael Moran, president and chief administrative officer for Baystate Health's Eastern Region, which includes Baystate Wing Hospital and the Baystate Mary Lane Outpatient Center. "We are committed to providing emergency services at both of our campuses. While the Baystate Mary Lane Emergency Department is appropriately ...</p>
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JimKinney413masslive.comNorwegian Air Shuttle eyes Bradley flights to Europehttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056751/norwegian-air-shuttle-eyes-bradley-flights-to-euro/&amp;nbsp;Norwegian Air Shuttle wants to start offering&amp;nbsp;discount flights from Bradley International Airport to Europe. Kevin Dillon, executive director of the Connecticut Airport Authority, said Thursday that Bradley and the CAA are in talks with Norwegian, as well as with a number of other airlines. But he can't confirm a start date for the Norwegian service. "We are talking to a lot of carriers. We are looking to increase the route map and increase the number of seats on existing routes," Dillon said. About 6 million travelers have passed through Bradley in 2016. Dillon hopes to grow that number to about ...Thu, 08 Dec 2016 20:19:12 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056751/norwegian-air-shuttle-eyes-bradley-flights-to-euro/Transportation
<p>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.norwegian.com/us?gclid=CMb6mbCF5dACFceIswodyooMMA" target="_blank">Norwegian Air Shuttle</a> wants to start offering&nbsp;discount flights from Bradley International Airport to Europe. <a href="http://topics.masslive.com/tag/kevin-dillon/" target="_blank">Kevin Dillon</a>, executive director of the Connecticut Airport Authority, said Thursday that Bradley and the CAA are in talks with Norwegian, as well as with a number of other airlines. But he can't confirm a start date for the Norwegian service. "We are talking to a lot of carriers. We are looking to increase the route map and increase the number of seats on existing routes," Dillon said. About 6 million travelers have passed through Bradley in 2016. Dillon hopes to grow that number ...</p>
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BusinessWestBusinessWestHCC Campus Center to Launch $43.5 Million Renovationhttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056833/hcc-campus-center-to-launch-43-5-million-renovatio/Holyoke Community College (HCC) is about to embark on a two-year, $43.5 million renovation project that will transform the look, feel, and organization of the campus. The HCC Campus Center is scheduled to close Feb. 3, 2017, and construction will begin soon after. When it reopens in 2019, college officials say, the building will be a place that truly lives up to its name. Originally known as G Building, the sloping, three-story concrete structure sits in the middle of the campus between an intermittent stream choked with invasive plants and the HCC Courtyard. Since it opened in 1980, the Campus ...Fri, 09 Dec 2016 14:04:23 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056833/hcc-campus-center-to-launch-43-5-million-renovatio/Education
<p>Holyoke Community College (HCC) is about to embark on a two-year, $43.5 million renovation project that will transform the look, feel, and organization of the campus. The HCC Campus Center is scheduled to close Feb. 3, 2017, and construction will begin soon after. When it reopens in 2019, college officials say, the building will be a place that truly lives up to its name. Originally known as G Building, the sloping, three-story concrete structure sits in the middle of the campus between an intermittent stream choked with invasive plants and the HCC Courtyard. Since it opened in 1980, the ...</p>
<p><img src="https://d112vpovu2xa8r.cloudfront.net/portal_massecon_hivefire_com/media/yVaQIovYlTE5kvI_100x100.jpeg"/></p>
masslive.comMassLive building offers new art gallery and musical performances in formerly vacant bank space | masslive.comhttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056847/masslive-building-offers-new-art-gallery-and-music/As a result of the most recent Futurecity conference in Springfield, where Tim Jones, head of strategy for the London-based consulting firm, suggested that Springfield should emphasize its Dr. Seuss roots, the owner of the MassLive building was inspired to develop and create a new public space.&amp;nbsp; The building, located at 1350 Main Street, has turned the former vacant bank retail space into a new art gallery and music venue.&amp;nbsp; The new space currently features a variety of art work from UMass Amherst professor and artist John Simpson and his students alongside holiday decorations.Fri, 09 Dec 2016 10:55:20 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056847/masslive-building-offers-new-art-gallery-and-music/
<p>As a result of the most recent Futurecity conference in Springfield, where Tim Jones, head of strategy for the London-based consulting firm, suggested that Springfield should emphasize its Dr. Seuss roots, the owner of the MassLive building was inspired to develop and create a new public space.&nbsp; The building, located at 1350 Main Street, has turned the former vacant bank retail space into a new art gallery and music venue.&nbsp; The new space currently features a variety of art work from UMass Amherst professor and artist John Simpson and his students alongside holiday decorations. <br /> </p>
<p><img src="https://d112vpovu2xa8r.cloudfront.net/portal_massecon_hivefire_com/media/1Nad49NggzQyxs2_100x100.jpeg"/></p>
masslivenewsmasslive.comWestover's Great New England Air Show to return in 2018, Thunderbirds will performhttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056628/westover-s-great-new-england-air-show-to-return-in/Westover Air Reserve Base will hold an air show in the summer of 2018 and already have the headliner scheduled. For the first time in a decade, the Thunderbirds, the Air Force's official aerial demonstration team, will be the top act for the show, said Lt. Col. James G. Bishop, chief of public affairs. The last time the Thunderbirds, which fly F-16 Fighting Falcons, have performed at a Great New England Air Show at Westover was in 2008. This year the Thunderbirds will also perform at the Barnes National Guard Air Base Air Show in Westfield that is scheduled for ...Wed, 07 Dec 2016 22:17:47 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056628/westover-s-great-new-england-air-show-to-return-in/Aerospace/DefenseTourism
<p>Westover Air Reserve Base will hold an air show in the summer of 2018 and already have the headliner scheduled. For the first time in a decade, the Thunderbirds, the Air Force's official aerial demonstration team, will be the top act for the show, said Lt. Col. James G. Bishop, chief of public affairs. The last time the Thunderbirds, which fly F-16 Fighting Falcons, have performed at a Great New England Air Show at Westover was in 2008. This year the Thunderbirds will also perform at the <a href="http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2015/07/westfield_international_air_sh_4.html" target="_blank">Barnes National Guard Air Base Air Show in Westfield</a> that is scheduled ...</p>
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MikeRPlaisancemasslive.com$1 million renovation improves patient rooms, expands therapy gym at Mont Marie Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Holyokehttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056625/1-million-renovation-improves-patient-rooms-expand/Mont Marie Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center at 36 Lower Westfield Road Wednesday unveiled a $1 million renovation to its 84-bed facility that includes updated patient rooms and an expanded therapy gym. "We give care to residents that come here short-term and long-term," said Carol Mortensen, the center's new administrator, who began last month. Mayor Alex B. Morse toured the renovated wing and said that investment and the center's 180 employees are economic generators for the city.Wed, 07 Dec 2016 22:17:47 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056625/1-million-renovation-improves-patient-rooms-expand/
<p>Mont Marie Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center at 36 Lower Westfield Road Wednesday unveiled a $1 million renovation to its 84-bed facility that includes updated patient rooms and an expanded therapy gym. "We give care to residents that come here short-term and long-term," said Carol Mortensen, the center's new administrator, who began last month. Mayor Alex B. Morse toured the renovated wing and said that investment and the center's 180 employees are economic generators for the city.</p>
<p><img src="https://d112vpovu2xa8r.cloudfront.net/portal_massecon_hivefire_com/media/EDfKsGytPOruAHp_100x100.jpeg"/></p>
JimKinney413masslive.comTo bodly go: Hazen Paper Co. wins award for Star Trek packaginghttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056632/to-bodly-go-hazen-paper-co-wins-award-for-star-tre/Not quite a commendation from Starfleet command, but Hazen Paper Co. has earned praise from the Association of International Metallizers, Coaters and Laminators for its work on the packaging for for "Star Trek: The Original Series, The Complete Series Remastered." The display case for for the DVD&amp;nbsp;release of the classic sci-fi TV series won the association's marketing award in the nonfood packaging category. Hazen, founded in 1925 and still family owned, is famous for its holographic papers, which display 3-D images when held up to the light.&amp;nbsp;The company also makes covers for each year's Super Bowl program.Wed, 07 Dec 2016 23:32:12 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056632/to-bodly-go-hazen-paper-co-wins-award-for-star-tre/Paper Manufacturing
<p>Not quite a commendation from Starfleet command, but Hazen Paper Co. has earned praise from the Association of International Metallizers, Coaters and Laminators for its work on the packaging for for "Star Trek: The Original Series, The Complete Series Remastered." The display case for for the DVD&nbsp;release of the classic sci-fi TV series won the association's marketing award in the nonfood packaging category. Hazen, founded in 1925 and still family owned, is famous for its holographic papers, which display 3-D images when held up to the light.&nbsp;The company also makes covers for each year's<a href="http://www.masslive.com/business-news/index.ssf/2016/02/hazen_paper_of_holyoke_continues_super_b.html" target="_blank"> Super Bowl ...</a></p>
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BusinessWestBusinessWestElms College President Talks Leadership with Young Professionalshttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056718/elms-college-president-talks-leadership-with-young/Elms College hosted a leadership luncheon for the Young Professional Society (YPS) of Greater Springfield on Dec. 7. The keynote speaker at the event was the college&amp;rsquo;s president, Mary Reap. In her lecture, Reap discussed the importance of recognizing opportunities, even unexpected or perhaps at-first unwelcome ones, and taking advantage of them to further one&amp;rsquo;s career goals. She also talked about developing diplomacy and perseverance, banishing self-doubt, and learning from mistakes.Thu, 08 Dec 2016 15:16:00 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056718/elms-college-president-talks-leadership-with-young/Education
<p>Elms College hosted a leadership luncheon for the Young Professional Society (YPS) of Greater Springfield on Dec. 7. The keynote speaker at the event was the college&rsquo;s president, Mary Reap. In her lecture, Reap discussed the importance of recognizing opportunities, even unexpected or perhaps at-first unwelcome ones, and taking advantage of them to further one&rsquo;s career goals. She also talked about developing diplomacy and perseverance, banishing self-doubt, and learning from mistakes.</p>
<p><img src="https://d112vpovu2xa8r.cloudfront.net/portal_massecon_hivefire_com/media/7eAeoc33KvMiLfe_100x100.gif"/></p>
BusinessWestBusinessWestHolyoke Medical Center Earns 2016 Leapfrog Top Hospital Awardhttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056587/holyoke-medical-center-earns-2016-leapfrog-top-hos/The Leapfrog Group announced that Holyoke Medical Center (HMC) has been named a Top Hospital for the second time in three years. Widely acknowledged as one of the most prestigious distinctions a hospital can receive in the U.S., the recognition showcases HMC&amp;rsquo;s commitment to patient safety and quality. &amp;ldquo;It is with great pride Holyoke Medical Center accepts the Top Hospital award for the second time. Being one of only two hospitals in Massachusetts to receive this distinction demonstrates how truly hard our team is focused on providing high-quality care in a safe environment, close to home. I extend my sincere ...Wed, 07 Dec 2016 16:06:59 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056587/holyoke-medical-center-earns-2016-leapfrog-top-hos/Health Care
<p>The Leapfrog Group announced that Holyoke Medical Center (HMC) has been named a Top Hospital for the second time in three years. Widely acknowledged as one of the most prestigious distinctions a hospital can receive in the U.S., the recognition showcases HMC&rsquo;s commitment to patient safety and quality. &ldquo;It is with great pride Holyoke Medical Center accepts the Top Hospital award for the second time. Being one of only two hospitals in Massachusetts to receive this distinction demonstrates how truly hard our team is focused on providing high-quality care in a safe environment, close to home. I extend ...</p>
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JimKinney413masslive.comWestfield Bank completes switchover of former Chicopee Savings locationshttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056458/westfield-bank-completes-switchover-of-former-chic/Westfield Bank has reopened all the former Chicopee Savings Bank offices under the Westfield Bank name, completing the merger of the former Chicopee Savings Bank into Westfield Bank and the new holding company called Western New England Bancorp. The bank will operate under the Westfield Bank name. Both banks shut down over the weekend and turned off online bill paying and a few other functionsTue, 06 Dec 2016 22:18:23 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056458/westfield-bank-completes-switchover-of-former-chic/Financial Services
<p><a href="http://www.masslive.com/business-news/index.ssf/2016/09/chicopee_savings_bank_shareholders_westf.html" target="_blank">Westfield Bank </a>has reopened all the former Chicopee Savings Bank offices under the Westfield Bank name, completing the merger of the former Chicopee Savings Bank into Westfield Bank and the new holding company called Western New England Bancorp. The bank will operate under the Westfield Bank name. Both banks shut down over the weekend and turned off online bill paying and a few other functions</p>
<p><img src="https://d112vpovu2xa8r.cloudfront.net/portal_massecon_hivefire_com/media/YcGmdRzwpQpNQx4_100x100.jpeg"/></p>
BusinessWestDakin Hires Stacey Price as Director of Development and Marketing - BusinessWesthttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056584/dakin-hires-stacey-price-as-director-of-developmen/Stacey Price has been hired as director of development and marketing at Dakin Humane Society, according to Executive Director Carmine DiCenso.&amp;nbsp; Price will oversee development and marketing efforts for the organization, which has two adoption centers in Leverett and Springfield, as well as a community spay/neuter clinic at the latter location. She will focus on donor and community relations and pursue strategic partnerships that will enable Dakin to continue to innovate while serving the needs of animals and the people who care for them in Western Mass. and beyond. The organization is 100% self-sustaining.Wed, 07 Dec 2016 11:29:14 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056584/dakin-hires-stacey-price-as-director-of-developmen/
<p>Stacey Price has been hired as director of development and marketing at Dakin Humane Society, according to Executive Director Carmine DiCenso.&nbsp; Price will oversee development and marketing efforts for the organization, which has two adoption centers in Leverett and Springfield, as well as a community spay/neuter clinic at the latter location. She will focus on donor and community relations and pursue strategic partnerships that will enable Dakin to continue to innovate while serving the needs of animals and the people who care for them in Western Mass. and beyond. The organization is 100% self-sustaining.</p>
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Lizro27masslive.com'Pathways to Success' initiative will educate, train unemployed Springfield residentshttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056439/pathways-to-success-initiative-will-educate-train-/The New England Farmworkers' Council has decided to "go back to basics" by offering education and training through its new "Pathways to Success" initiative. "The vision for (this) initiative is to serve the whole person," said Vanessa Otero, deputy director of Partners for Community, in a prepared statement. "As one of the more seasoned workforce development organizations in the area, the New England Farmworkers' Council took a hard look at its core strengths and decided that going back to basics -- education and training -- would better allow us to direct resources to maximize the impact we have on the ...Tue, 06 Dec 2016 19:49:09 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056439/pathways-to-success-initiative-will-educate-train-/Education
<p>The New England Farmworkers' Council has decided to "go back to basics" by offering education and training through its new "Pathways to Success" initiative. "The vision for (this) initiative is to serve the whole person," said Vanessa Otero, deputy director of Partners for Community, in a prepared statement. "As one of the more seasoned workforce development organizations in the area, the New England Farmworkers' Council took a hard look at its core strengths and decided that going back to basics -- education and training -- would better allow us to direct resources to maximize the impact we have on the people that ...</p>
<p><img src="https://d112vpovu2xa8r.cloudfront.net/portal_massecon_hivefire_com/media/DycWP2IoLI3bEfW_100x100.jpeg"/></p>
Whitney Dow FergusonFrom the EDCBay State Business Linkhttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056441/bay-state-business-link/We are reaching out to ask that you consider attending the second Bay State Business Link forum hosted by the Office of House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo and the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce as part of a joint economic development initiative. The Bay State Business Link was created to spur B2B collaboration across all regions of the Commonwealth and provide opportunities for small and new businesses to connect with established Boston-based companies. Our partners in this initiative are the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council, MassChallenge, and the Massachusetts Manufacturing Extension Partnership.&amp;nbsp;Tue, 06 Dec 2016 14:57:24 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056441/bay-state-business-link/<p>We are reaching out to ask that you consider attending the second Bay State Business Link forum hosted by the Office of House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo and the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce as part of a joint economic development initiative.</p>
<p>The Bay State Business Link was created to spur B2B collaboration across all regions of the Commonwealth and provide opportunities for small and new businesses to connect with established Boston-based companies. Our partners in this initiative are the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council, MassChallenge, and the Massachusetts Manufacturing Extension Partnership.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>We will hold the event on December 16<sup>th</sup> from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the State House in the Members&rsquo; Lounge (3<sup>rd</sup> floor).&nbsp; Please RSVP to Whitney Ferguson if you are able to attend </strong><a href="mailto:whitney.ferguson@mahouse.gov"><strong>whitney.ferguson@mahouse.gov</strong></a><strong> 617-722-2500.</strong></p>
<p>The panel, &ldquo;Putting talent to work: Manufacturing in the innovation economy,&rdquo; will include participants:</p>
<ul>
<li>Rick Sullivan, President and CEO of the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council</li>
<li>Emily Reichert, Founder and CEO of Greentown Labs</li>
<li>Phil Giudice, CEO and President of Ambri (a designer and manufacturer of energy storage systems)</li>
</ul>
<p>This meeting will bring together stakeholders from the Boston region and Western Massachusetts as we work to encourage economic growth in all parts of the Commonwealth. We share in the belief that Massachusetts will grow more successful if every region experiences healthy economic development and we hope that you work with us to the foster business connections that are crucial to this endeavor.</p>
<p>Thank you for considering joining us in our efforts to continue building the Bay State Business Link.</p>
<p>Best regards,</p>
<p>Hon. Robert DeLeo</p>
<p>Speaker, Massachusetts House of Representatives</p>
<p>James E. Rooney</p>
<p>President &amp; CEO, Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Whitney Dow Ferguson</em></p>
<p><em>Office of House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo</em></p>
<p><em>860-324-0165</em></p><p><img src="https://d112vpovu2xa8r.cloudfront.net/portal_massecon_hivefire_com/media/o3FegtfqZOqpisV_100x100.jpeg"/></p>
dglaunmasslive.comNew 'video map' showcases Springfield's cultural attractionshttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056272/new-video-map-showcases-springfield-s-cultural-att/The Springfield Central Cultural District, a membership group that includes dozens of institutions in downtown Springfield, has embarked on a series of projects to revitalize the city center and attract visitors. A recent public art project&amp;nbsp;commissioned artists to paint murals on utility boxes across downtown. The videos feature the Basketball Hall of Fame, CityStage, the Springfield Symphony Orchestra, UMass Springfield, New England Public Radio, WGBY, Sterns Square, the Springfield Armory National Historic Site and Museum, the Springfield Museums, Springfield Central Library, the Community Music School, MassMutual Center and Court Square.Mon, 05 Dec 2016 16:52:42 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056272/new-video-map-showcases-springfield-s-cultural-att/Tourism
<p>The Springfield Central Cultural District, a membership group that includes dozens of institutions in downtown Springfield, has embarked on a series of projects to revitalize the city center and attract visitors. A recent <a href="http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2016/05/watch_artists_transform_downto.html" target="_blank">public art project</a>&nbsp;commissioned artists to paint murals on utility boxes across downtown. The videos feature the Basketball Hall of Fame, CityStage, the Springfield Symphony Orchestra, UMass Springfield, New England Public Radio, WGBY, Sterns Square, the Springfield Armory National Historic Site and Museum, the Springfield Museums, Springfield Central Library, the Community Music School, MassMutual Center and Court Square.</p>
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BusinessWestBusinessWestDora Robinson to Step Down at United Way of Pioneer Valleyhttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056401/dora-robinson-to-step-down-at-united-way-of-pionee/United Way of Pioneer Valley (UWPV) announced that the organization&amp;rsquo;s president and CEO, Dora Robinson, will retire effective June 30, 2017, starting an orderly leadership transition over the next six months. The board of trustees named Jeffrey Ciuffreda as the organization&amp;rsquo;s interim president and CEO, effective immediately. Robinson will continue to serve UWPV as president emeritus. Robinson&amp;rsquo;s decision will bring to a close a career of moren than 40 years of nonprofit leadership in the Greater Springfield community, the last seven with UWPV.Tue, 06 Dec 2016 14:18:37 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056401/dora-robinson-to-step-down-at-united-way-of-pionee/
<p>United Way of Pioneer Valley (UWPV) announced that the organization&rsquo;s president and CEO, Dora Robinson, will retire effective June 30, 2017, starting an orderly leadership transition over the next six months. The board of trustees named Jeffrey Ciuffreda as the organization&rsquo;s interim president and CEO, effective immediately. Robinson will continue to serve UWPV as president emeritus. Robinson&rsquo;s decision will bring to a close a career of moren than 40 years of nonprofit leadership in the Greater Springfield community, the last seven with UWPV.</p>
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masslive.comPeople In Business: Maureen M. Sullivan of The Springfield Regional Chamberhttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055986/people-in-business-maureen-m-sullivan-of-the-sprin/The Springfield Regional Chamber has announced that Maureen M. Sullivan of Holyoke, Massachusetts has been named its director of marketing and communications. Sullivan will be responsible for the strategic direction, development, management and implementation of all aspects of marketing, public relations, social media, media relations and communications efforts. She replaces Nancy F. Creed who assumed the role of Chamber president in August. Sullivan comes to the Chamber with extensive marketing and communications experience, most recently as president of the Maureen Sullivan Media Group, an advertising and marketing firm focused on developing branding, marketing strategies and advertising and event marketing.Fri, 02 Dec 2016 18:29:05 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055986/people-in-business-maureen-m-sullivan-of-the-sprin/
<p>The Springfield Regional Chamber has announced that <strong>Maureen M. Sullivan </strong>of Holyoke, Massachusetts has been named its director of marketing and communications. Sullivan will be responsible for the strategic direction, development, management and implementation of all aspects of marketing, public relations, social media, media relations and communications efforts. She replaces Nancy F. Creed who assumed the role of Chamber president in August. Sullivan comes to the Chamber with extensive marketing and communications experience, most recently as president of the Maureen Sullivan Media Group, an advertising and marketing firm focused on developing branding, marketing strategies and advertising and event marketing.</p>
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JimKinney413masslive.comFriendly's to close Chicopee distribution center: 50 jobs losthttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056010/friendly-s-to-close-chicopee-distribution-center-5/Friendly's will close its Chicopee distribution center six months after selling off its ice cream plant and retail distribution business, putting about 50 employees out of work. Restaurant operator FIC Restaurants, which operates under the brand name Friendly's, will use US Foods for restaurant distribution services beginning in February 2017, according to a statement from spokeswoman Maura Tobias. The company&amp;nbsp;is working with those 50 employees to find them new jobs at Friendly's or with Dean Foods, which bought the Wilbraham ice cream factory and wholesale distribution operation&amp;nbsp;in May for $155 million in cash.Fri, 02 Dec 2016 20:59:21 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056010/friendly-s-to-close-chicopee-distribution-center-5/
<p><a href="http://www.masslive.com/business-news/index.ssf/2016/05/friendlys_sells_ice_cream_business_s_pre.html">Friendly's</a> will close its Chicopee distribution center six months after selling off its ice cream plant and retail distribution business, putting about 50 employees out of work. Restaurant operator FIC Restaurants, which operates under the brand name Friendly's, will use US Foods for restaurant distribution services beginning in February 2017, according to a statement from spokeswoman Maura Tobias. The company&nbsp;is working with those 50 employees to find them new jobs at Friendly's or with Dean Foods, which bought the Wilbraham ice cream factory and wholesale distribution operation&nbsp;in May for $155 million in cash.</p>
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BusinessWestBusinessWestGreater Holyoke Chamber Names 2016 Ambassador of the Yearhttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056261/greater-holyoke-chamber-names-2016-ambassador-of-t/The Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce gave its 2016 Chamber Ambassador of the Year Award to Katherine Buckley, personal customer service representative at Goss &amp; McLain Insurance. &amp;ldquo;It is our privilege to honor Katie Buckley for her volunteer efforts on behalf of the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce,&amp;rdquo; said Kathleen Anderson, chamber president. &amp;ldquo;We value her enthusiasm, energy, and the support she brings to the chamber ambassador committee. Katie goes over and above her role as an ambassador in welcoming people to our events and networking opportunities.&amp;rdquo;Mon, 05 Dec 2016 15:16:53 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056261/greater-holyoke-chamber-names-2016-ambassador-of-t/
<p>The Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce gave its 2016 Chamber Ambassador of the Year Award to Katherine Buckley, personal customer service representative at Goss &amp; McLain Insurance. &ldquo;It is our privilege to honor Katie Buckley for her volunteer efforts on behalf of the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce,&rdquo; said Kathleen Anderson, chamber president. &ldquo;We value her enthusiasm, energy, and the support she brings to the chamber ambassador committee. Katie goes over and above her role as an ambassador in welcoming people to our events and networking opportunities.&rdquo;</p>
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masslive.comBradley International Airport opens Escape Lounge, a premium lounge available to all travelers | masslive.comhttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056271/bradley-international-airport-opens-escape-lounge-/Escape Lounge, Bradley International Airport's foray into first-class lounges, is open.&amp;nbsp; Escape Lounge is meant to be similar to the posh first-class lounges airlines offer at major hubs around the world, according to a press release, and is available to all passengers. The Bradley Escape Lounge goes with Bradley's reintroduction of transatlantic flights with new nonstop Aer Lingus service to Dublin, Ireland, that started in September.Mon, 05 Dec 2016 11:31:50 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2056271/bradley-international-airport-opens-escape-lounge-/Transportation
<p>Escape Lounge, Bradley International Airport's foray into first-class lounges, is open.&nbsp; Escape Lounge is meant to be similar to the posh first-class lounges airlines offer at major hubs around the world, according to a press release, and is available to all passengers. The Bradley Escape Lounge goes with Bradley's reintroduction of transatlantic flights with new nonstop Aer Lingus service to Dublin, Ireland, that started in September.</p>
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Joseph BednarBusinessWestDoherty, Wallace, Pillsbury &amp; Murphy Thrives in a Shifting Law Landscapehttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055502/doherty-wallace-pillsbury-murphy-thrives-in-a-shif/When four respected attorneys came together 49 years ago to form Doherty, Wallace, Pillsbury &amp; Murphy, they had solid ideas about where they would focus their practice. But in the decades since, this Springfield-based institution, while still true to its corporate and litigation roots, has become far more nimble, specialized, and adaptable to changes in the legal field driven by regulatory shifts, technological advances, and evolving client needs. In doing so, it has forged one of the region&amp;rsquo;s true local success stories.Fri, 02 Dec 2016 13:31:26 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055502/doherty-wallace-pillsbury-murphy-thrives-in-a-shif/
<p>When four respected attorneys came together 49 years ago to form Doherty, Wallace, Pillsbury &amp; Murphy, they had solid ideas about where they would focus their practice. But in the decades since, this Springfield-based institution, while still true to its corporate and litigation roots, has become far more nimble, specialized, and adaptable to changes in the legal field driven by regulatory shifts, technological advances, and evolving client needs. In doing so, it has forged one of the region&rsquo;s true local success stories.</p>
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aflynn2masslive.comWestern New England University researchers working on breath analyzer to monitor diabeteshttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055979/western-new-england-university-researchers-working/The development and evolution of breath-analysis technology has long been the focus of medical research as a less invasive way to detect chemical compounds at certain levels that could indicate the presence of specific diseases. Researchers, including two in the Pioneer Valley, have been developing an analyzer for diabetics to use their exhaled breath to determine blood sugar/glucose levels through the detection of acetone. This is seen as a less invasive check than the traditional portable meter that utilizes a prick of blood for its test strip.Fri, 02 Dec 2016 17:39:34 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055979/western-new-england-university-researchers-working/EducationHealth Care
<p>The development and evolution of <a href="https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/12/101228141700.htm" target="blank">breath-analysis technology</a> has long been the focus of medical research as a less invasive way to detect chemical compounds at certain levels that could indicate the presence of specific diseases. <a href="https://www.acs.org/content/acs/en/pressroom/presspacs/2016/acs-presspac-november-9-2016/toward-a-hand-held-breathalyzer-for-diagnosing-diabetes.html" target="blank">Researchers</a>, including two in the Pioneer Valley, have been developing an analyzer for diabetics to use their exhaled breath to determine blood sugar/glucose levels through the detection of acetone. This is seen as a less invasive check than the traditional<a href="http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/blood-glucose-control/checking-your-blood-glucose.html?referrer=https://www.google.com/" target="blank"> portable meter</a> that utilizes a prick of blood for its test strip.</p>
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JimKinney413masslive.comBaystate Health welcomes UMass Medical School campus to Springfield with goal to train docs who'll practice in Western Massachusettshttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055834/baystate-health-welcomes-umass-medical-school-camp/Baystate Health has already offered admission to four prospective students for the new medical school program it's starting in cooperation with the University of Massachusetts, including students from Springfield interested in continuing their education in their hometown. One of the missions of the medical school -- called the PURCH for Population-based Urban and Rural Community Health -- will be to train physicians who will be more likely to build their careers in Western Massachusetts and fill the region's chronic need for more primary care doctors.Thu, 01 Dec 2016 20:39:38 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055834/baystate-health-welcomes-umass-medical-school-camp/EducationHealth Care
<p><a href="http://www.masslive.com/business-news/index.ssf/2016/08/baystate_preps_for_springfield_medical_s.html">Baystate Health</a> has already offered admission to four prospective students for the new medical school program it's starting in cooperation with the University of Massachusetts, including students from Springfield interested in continuing their education in their hometown. One of the missions of the medical school -- called the PURCH for Population-based Urban and Rural Community Health -- will be to train physicians who will be more likely to build their careers in Western Massachusetts and fill the region's chronic need for more primary care doctors.</p>
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masslive.comConsultant says Springfield should Seuss-ify and diversify into an arts mecca | masslive.comhttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055806/consultant-says-springfield-should-seuss-ify-and-d/So what is Springfield willing to do for its own author of quirky children's books -- native son Dr. Seuss, who was born Theodor Seuss Geisel here in 1904?&amp;nbsp; It's one of the questions posed Wednesday by Tim Jones, head of strategy for the London-based consulting firm Futurecity as he laid a case that Springfield, Worcster and Boston need to use the arts to foster economic and real estate development as well as a sense of community and hopefulness to drive their collective futures.Thu, 01 Dec 2016 11:31:44 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055806/consultant-says-springfield-should-seuss-ify-and-d/
<p>So what is Springfield willing to do for its own author of quirky children's books -- native son Dr. Seuss, who was born Theodor Seuss Geisel here in 1904?&nbsp; It's one of the questions posed Wednesday by Tim Jones, head of strategy for the London-based consulting firm Futurecity as he laid a case that Springfield, Worcster and Boston need to use the arts to foster economic and real estate development as well as a sense of community and hopefulness to drive their collective futures.</p>
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masslivenewsmasslive.comSpringfield City Council OKs expansion of 2 auto businesseshttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055762/springfield-city-council-oks-expansion-of-2-auto-b/The City Council granted special permits this week to allow two automotive businesses to expand in Indian Orchard, including a permit that will allow Rick's Auto Body to store and reassemble junk cars. The council voted unanimously on Monday following a public hearing at City Hall to approve a Class 3 storage yard (junk yard) permit at Rick's Auto Body of 375 Pasco Road.Thu, 01 Dec 2016 12:24:14 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055762/springfield-city-council-oks-expansion-of-2-auto-b/
<p>The <a href="http://topics.masslive.com/tag/springfield-city-council/index.html" target="_blank">City Council</a> granted special permits this week to allow two automotive businesses to expand in Indian Orchard, including a permit that will allow Rick's Auto Body to store and reassemble junk cars. The council voted unanimously on Monday following a public hearing at City Hall to approve a Class 3 storage yard (junk yard) permit at Rick's Auto Body of 375 Pasco Road. </p>
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#!/shiraschoenbergmasslive.comSpringfield, Holyoke receive preschool expansion grantshttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055676/springfield-holyoke-receive-preschool-expansion-gr/Massachusetts has received a $15 million federal grant to provide a year of free preschool to low-income children in five cities, including Holyoke and Springfield. This is the third year the state has received the grant. "Over the past year, these Pre-School Expansion Programs have begun to show that they are model programs which can help us continue to build high-quality early education programs across the Commonwealth," said Secretary of Education Jim Peyser in a statement. "With this third round of funding, we will not only help more children have access to high-quality early education programs but it will advance ...Wed, 30 Nov 2016 20:08:32 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055676/springfield-holyoke-receive-preschool-expansion-gr/Education
<p>Massachusetts has received a $15 million federal grant to provide a year of free preschool to low-income children in five cities, including Holyoke and Springfield. This is the third year the state has received the grant. "Over the past year, these Pre-School Expansion Programs have begun to show that they are model programs which can help us continue to build high-quality early education programs across the Commonwealth," said Secretary of Education Jim Peyser in a statement. "With this third round of funding, we will not only help more children have access to high-quality early education programs but it will advance ...</p>
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Kathleen MitchellBusinessWestO'Reilly, Talbot &amp; Okun Associates Finds Cost Efficient Environmental Solutionshttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055501/oreilly-talbot-okun-associates-finds-cost-efficien/The firm known colloquially as OTO has been involved in most of the major building projects that have taken place across the region in the past few decades &amp;mdash; everything from the major addition at Baystate Medical Center to construction of a subway-car manufacturing plant in Springfield&amp;rsquo;s east end. But much of the company&amp;rsquo;s work goes unnoticed, because it takes place before the heavy machinery arrives. To say their work is important, though, would be to only, well, scratch the surface.Wed, 30 Nov 2016 13:51:40 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055501/oreilly-talbot-okun-associates-finds-cost-efficien/
<p>The firm known colloquially as OTO has been involved in most of the major building projects that have taken place across the region in the past few decades &mdash; everything from the major addition at Baystate Medical Center to construction of a subway-car manufacturing plant in Springfield&rsquo;s east end. But much of the company&rsquo;s work goes unnoticed, because it takes place before the heavy machinery arrives. To say their work is important, though, would be to only, well, scratch the surface.</p>
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masslive.comMassive cleanup costs at former Belchertown State School force officials to seek EPA Brownfields designation for additional funding | masslive.comhttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055664/massive-cleanup-costs-at-former-belchertown-state-/The Belchertown Economic Development Industrial Corporation, a selectmen-appointed board that officially owns the property, will convene a public hearing Wednesday as part of the application process to designate three sites as Brownfields in order to get federal cleanup money.&amp;nbsp; The public hearing at Lawrence Memorial Hall, 2 Jabish St., is scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m.&amp;nbsp; Documents the BEDIC has made available for the hearing show the extent of toxic materials present at the former state school. These include asbestos and polychlorinated biphenyls, commonly known as PCBs, in building materials.Wed, 30 Nov 2016 13:48:25 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055664/massive-cleanup-costs-at-former-belchertown-state-/
<p>The Belchertown Economic Development Industrial Corporation, a selectmen-appointed board that officially owns the property, will convene a public hearing Wednesday as part of the application process to designate three sites as Brownfields in order to get federal cleanup money.&nbsp; The public hearing at Lawrence Memorial Hall, 2 Jabish St., is scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m.&nbsp; Documents the BEDIC has made available for the hearing show the extent of toxic materials present at the former state school. These include asbestos and polychlorinated biphenyls, commonly known as PCBs, in building materials. <br /> <br /><br /></p>
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michelletweetinmasslive.comMassMutual Foundation, Valley Venture Mentors partnership cited as entrepreneurship model by White Househttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055659/massmutual-foundation-valley-venture-mentors-partn/The partnership between the MassMutual Foundation and Valley Venture Mentors was&amp;nbsp;called a model for startup efforts in the White House document.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp; The rates of entrepreneurship among people of color and women of all races has increased significantly in the past 20 years. The number of women-owned businesses in the past decade have increased five times the national average, including the number of firms owned by African American women and Latinas doubling. The increased rate of entrepreneurship across the country - especially among women and non-white men - can be credited in large part to startup accelerator programs providing mentorship and ...Wed, 30 Nov 2016 17:40:32 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055659/massmutual-foundation-valley-venture-mentors-partn/Entrepreneurship
<p>The partnership between the MassMutual Foundation and Valley Venture Mentors was&nbsp;called a model for startup efforts in the White House document.&nbsp;&nbsp; The rates of entrepreneurship among people of color and women of all races has increased significantly in the past 20 years. The number of women-owned businesses in the past decade have increased five times the national average, including the number of firms owned by African American women and Latinas doubling. The increased rate of entrepreneurship across the country - especially among women and non-white men - can be credited in large part to startup accelerator programs providing mentorship and early ...</p>
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George O'BrienBusinessWestAt the Gaudreau Group, Women Have Thrived in Non-traditional Roleshttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055500/at-the-gaudreau-group-women-have-thrived-in-non-tr/The Gaudreau Group in Wilbraham is like most other insurance and financial service agencies in terms of the products and services it offers to clients. It is different, though, in the fact that an extraordinarily large number of high-level positions have been filled by women. This development wasn&amp;rsquo;t exactly planned, but then again, it wasn&amp;rsquo;t really an accident, either.&amp;nbsp; Jules Gaudreau has been in the financial services field for more than three decades, more than enough time to know that this industry has moved well beyond that old catch-phrase &amp;lsquo;the insurance man.&amp;rsquo;Tue, 29 Nov 2016 10:44:26 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055500/at-the-gaudreau-group-women-have-thrived-in-non-tr/Financial Services
<p>The Gaudreau Group in Wilbraham is like most other insurance and financial service agencies in terms of the products and services it offers to clients. It is different, though, in the fact that an extraordinarily large number of high-level positions have been filled by women. This development wasn&rsquo;t exactly planned, but then again, it wasn&rsquo;t really an accident, either.&nbsp; Jules Gaudreau has been in the financial services field for more than three decades, more than enough time to know that this industry has moved well beyond that old catch-phrase &lsquo;the insurance man.&rsquo; <br /> </p>
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masslive.comWest of River Chamber holding annual Career Day at Agawam Jr. High School | masslive.comhttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055532/west-of-river-chamber-holding-annual-career-day-at/The West of the River Chamber of Commerce is holding its annual Career Day at Agawam Junior High School at 7:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 1.&amp;nbsp; The event brings local business owners and tradespeople together to share information about careers with students, who sign up for seminars on jobs in fields they're interested in learning more about.Tue, 29 Nov 2016 10:39:10 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055532/west-of-river-chamber-holding-annual-career-day-at/
<p>The West of the River Chamber of Commerce is holding its annual Career Day at Agawam Junior High School at 7:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 1.&nbsp; The event brings local business owners and tradespeople together to share information about careers with students, who sign up for seminars on jobs in fields they're interested in learning more about.</p>
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BusinessWestBusinessWestMaureen Sullivan Joins Springfield Regional Chamber Teamhttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055530/maureen-sullivan-joins-springfield-regional-chambe/The Springfield Regional Chamber announced that Maureen Sullivan has been named its director of marketing and communications, effective Dec. 1. Sullivan will be responsible for the strategic direction, development, management, and implementation of all aspects of marketing, public relations, social media, media relations, and communications efforts. She replaces Nancy Creed, who assumed the role of chamber president in August. Sullivan comes to the chamber with extensive marketing and communications experience, most recently as president of the Maureen Sullivan Media Group, an advertising and marketing firm focused on developing branding, marketing strategies, advertising, and event marketing.Tue, 29 Nov 2016 14:53:08 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055530/maureen-sullivan-joins-springfield-regional-chambe/
<p>The Springfield Regional Chamber announced that Maureen Sullivan has been named its director of marketing and communications, effective Dec. 1. Sullivan will be responsible for the strategic direction, development, management, and implementation of all aspects of marketing, public relations, social media, media relations, and communications efforts. She replaces Nancy Creed, who assumed the role of chamber president in August. Sullivan comes to the chamber with extensive marketing and communications experience, most recently as president of the Maureen Sullivan Media Group, an advertising and marketing firm focused on developing branding, marketing strategies, advertising, and event marketing.</p>
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masslive.comSpringfield Business Improvement District announces 2nd Annual Downtown Springfield Holiday Markethttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055179/springfield-business-improvement-district-announce/The Springfield Business Improvement District has announced the 2nd annual Downtown Springfield Holiday Market. Springfield Business Improvement Director Chris Russell says, "Springfield has not seen a retail experience like this in over 25 years." This year you can expect to find dozens of local and regional retailers and artisans selling a wide variety of gifts for everyone's taste including Wonderland Gifts, Jackson &amp; Connor, DiRico's Golf &amp; Racquet, Kate Gray, Mountain to Seas Knits, Pops Biscotti and Thomas Jewelry, to name a few.Wed, 23 Nov 2016 18:18:51 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055179/springfield-business-improvement-district-announce/Retail
<p>The Springfield Business Improvement District has announced the 2nd annual Downtown Springfield Holiday Market. Springfield Business Improvement Director Chris Russell says, "Springfield has not seen a retail experience like this in over 25 years." This year you can expect to find dozens of local and regional retailers and artisans selling a wide variety of gifts for everyone's taste including Wonderland Gifts, Jackson &amp; Connor, DiRico's Golf &amp; Racquet, Kate Gray, Mountain to Seas Knits, Pops Biscotti and Thomas Jewelry, to name a few.</p>
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#!/shiraschoenbergmasslive.comReport: Meeting state need for vocational education would cost $27Mhttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055276/report-meeting-state-need-for-vocational-education/Massachusetts has around 5,400 students who are unable to get into vocational schools because of waiting lists or because of a lack of schools in their community, according to a report released Friday by the Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center. Addressing that gap, the report found, would cost $27 million. "Successful implementation of this type of (career, vocational and technical education) expansion would require careful budget and building plans at the local level, along with the active participation of state partners," the report said.Fri, 25 Nov 2016 12:46:39 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055276/report-meeting-state-need-for-vocational-education/Education
<p>Massachusetts has around 5,400 students who are unable to get into vocational schools because of waiting lists or because of a lack of schools in their community, according to a report released Friday by the Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center. Addressing that gap, the report found, would cost $27 million. "Successful implementation of this type of (career, vocational and technical education) expansion would require careful budget and building plans at the local level, along with the active participation of state partners," the report said.</p>
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JimKinney413masslive.comGovernment, education and business lead Greater Springfield job growth in Octoberhttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055299/government-education-and-business-lead-greater-spr/Unemployment in Greater Springfield was 3.4 percent in October, the result of solid job gains both over the month and since October 2015 Statistics show that Greater Springfield added 4,400 jobs in the month and 5,600 in the past 12 months. Here are those job gains broken down by sector of the economy, with the results from last year in parenthesis. All data was provided by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development and by the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics.Fri, 25 Nov 2016 21:16:45 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055299/government-education-and-business-lead-greater-spr/
<p>Unemployment in Greater Springfield was 3.4 percent in October, the result of solid job gains both over the month and since October 2015 Statistics show that Greater Springfield added 4,400 jobs in the month and 5,600 in the past 12 months. Here are those job gains broken down by sector of the economy, with the results from last year in parenthesis. All data was provided by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development and by the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics.</p>
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JimKinney413masslive.comSalvatore's on Boston Road to become Compari's, remain family orientedhttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055311/salvatore-s-on-boston-road-to-become-compari-s-rem/Anabela Basile was looking for a new building to house her business, USA Mortgage Network, which had outgrown its offices in Indian Orchard. What she found, with the help of her&amp;nbsp;daughter Tanya Vitale-Basile, a real estate professional, was business space for her whole family. She bought the former Salvatore's Restaurant at 1333 Boston Road in Springfield and renovated part of the building as her new mortgage office. With the help of her family, she transformed the rest it into the new Compari's Ristorante. Her husband, Joe, and daughter Kayla Basile will work at the restaurant. Kayla Basile has worked at ...Sat, 26 Nov 2016 11:47:16 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055311/salvatore-s-on-boston-road-to-become-compari-s-rem/
<p>Anabela Basile was looking for a new building to house her business, USA Mortgage Network, which had outgrown its offices in Indian Orchard. What she found, with the help of her&nbsp;daughter Tanya Vitale-Basile, a real estate professional, was business space for her whole family. She bought the former Salvatore's Restaurant at 1333 Boston Road in Springfield and renovated part of the building as her new mortgage office. With the help of her family, she transformed the rest it into the new Compari's Ristorante. Her husband, Joe, and daughter Kayla Basile will work at the restaurant. Kayla Basile ...</p>
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BusinessWest StaffBusinessWestSSO Moves Offices to 1441 Main St.http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055042/sso-moves-offices-to-1441-main-st/Now offering its patrons a more convenient location and validated parking, the Springfield Symphony Orchestra has moved its Administrative and Box Offices to 1441 Main St., Springfield and, at the same time, has gained greater visibility and modern, expanded new space.&amp;nbsp; The SSO invites all subscribers, volunteers and patrons, as well as everyone in the downtown area, to its official Grand Opening of the new space, centrally located across from Tower Square on the ground floor level in the TD Bank Building, on Nov. 29 from 12:30 &amp;ndash; 2:00 p.m. in the lobby of the TD Bank building. Hors d&amp;rsquo;oeuvres ...Wed, 23 Nov 2016 10:18:47 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055042/sso-moves-offices-to-1441-main-st/
<p>Now offering its patrons a more convenient location and validated parking, the Springfield Symphony Orchestra has moved its Administrative and Box Offices to 1441 Main St., Springfield and, at the same time, has gained greater visibility and modern, expanded new space.&nbsp; The SSO invites all subscribers, volunteers and patrons, as well as everyone in the downtown area, to its official Grand Opening of the new space, centrally located across from Tower Square on the ground floor level in the TD Bank Building, on Nov. 29 from 12:30 &ndash; 2:00 p.m. in the lobby of the TD Bank building ...</p>
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masslive.comQ&amp;A: '300 businesses' in 10 years in Holyoke goal set by new SPARK manager Tessa Murphy-Romboletti | masslive.comhttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055165/q-a-300-businesses-in-10-years-in-holyoke-goal-set/Tessa Murphy-Romboletti said her goal is to establish 300 new businesses here in 10 years as new program manager of the commercial-catalyst known as SPARK.&amp;nbsp; 'It's ambitious but I am confident that we're heading in the right direction towards achieving that goal. Working for the city, I've learned so much that I think has prepared me for this new position, and I'm really excited to get started,' Murphy-Romboletti said Tuesday.Wed, 23 Nov 2016 10:17:31 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055165/q-a-300-businesses-in-10-years-in-holyoke-goal-set/
<p>Tessa Murphy-Romboletti said her goal is to establish 300 new businesses here in 10 years as new program manager of the commercial-catalyst known as SPARK.&nbsp; 'It's ambitious but I am confident that we're heading in the right direction towards achieving that goal. Working for the city, I've learned so much that I think has prepared me for this new position, and I'm really excited to get started,' Murphy-Romboletti said Tuesday.</p>
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#!/shiraschoenbergmasslive.comMassachusetts seeks bids to extend broadband internet to 40 WMass townshttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055080/massachusetts-seeks-bids-to-extend-broadband-inter/State officials are soliciting bids from private companies to build out broadband internet connections in 40 Western Massachusetts towns. The bid request is part of an effort by Gov. Charlie Baker's administration over the last six months to revive and revitalize state government's efforts to provide broadband internet to all homes in Massachusetts. "About six to eight months ago, the dynamic started to change because the administration took a hands-on approach over at (the Massachusetts Broadband Institute)," said Senate President Stan Rosenberg, D-Amherst, whose district includes many of the underserved towns. "Communities in my district are seeing a big difference ...Tue, 22 Nov 2016 22:35:14 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055080/massachusetts-seeks-bids-to-extend-broadband-inter/Information Technology
<p>State officials are soliciting bids from private companies to build out broadband internet connections in 40 Western Massachusetts towns. The bid request is part of an effort by Gov. Charlie Baker's administration over the last six months to revive and revitalize state government's efforts to provide broadband internet to all homes in Massachusetts. "About six to eight months ago, the dynamic started to change because the administration took a hands-on approach over at (the Massachusetts Broadband Institute)," said Senate President Stan Rosenberg, D-Amherst, whose district includes many of the underserved towns. "Communities in my district are seeing a ...</p>
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JimKinney413masslive.comSpringfield 'rising to new heights' on $3.3 billion in development, city official tells chamberhttp://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055087/springfield-rising-to-new-heights-on-3-3-billion-i/Springfield's chief development officer detailed $3.307 billion in ongoing and recent economic development projects in the city for a Springfield Regional Chamber of Commerce audience meeting Tuesday. Called "Springfield: Rising to New Heights," Kevin Kennedy's presentation was a follow-up to presentations he gave in 2014 and 2015. It drew more than 200 attendees to the CityStage theater. Mayor Domenic J. Sarno opened the presentation by talking about how Springfield was near bankruptcy a decade ago. It's not only recovered but has endured the problems endemic to urban America and the June 2011 tornado, he said.Tue, 22 Nov 2016 23:11:23 -0500http://news.westernmassedc.com/articles/2055087/springfield-rising-to-new-heights-on-3-3-billion-i/
<p>Springfield's chief development officer detailed $3.307 billion in ongoing and recent economic development projects in the city for a Springfield Regional Chamber of Commerce audience meeting Tuesday. Called "Springfield: Rising to New Heights," Kevin Kennedy's presentation was a follow-up to presentations he gave in 2014 and 2015. It drew more than 200 attendees to the CityStage theater. Mayor Domenic J. Sarno opened the presentation by talking about how Springfield was near bankruptcy a decade ago. It's not only recovered but has endured the problems endemic to urban America and the June 2011 tornado, he said.</p>
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